Le Bar Penelope — Restaurant in New York

Not really one to post negative reviews but I felt like this time it was necessary. A friend and I were in the city to celebrate her birthday and whenever we visit we try to find a new lounge to enjoy which we usually do with great success. This time however, our search led us to Bar Penelope. We tried making a reservation online but saw there was nothing available, however on their booking site it stated that walk-ins are encouraged and would be able to have access to the bar exclusively (I attached a picture directly from their site). Upon our arrival, when asked if we had reservations we stated we didn’t but that we were just trying to find seating at the bar. Immediately we were dismissed as if we didn’t “belong” and were told that “this isn’t that kind of place”. But your website indicates otherwise? Anyway, after that experience and other behavior that was exhibited to other patrons (the doorman was obviously being selective about who fit the “criteria”) we were turned off by the entire establishment and just decided to go elsewhere.

And to keep things relative, I’m very aware of how the culture can be for establishments like this. As someone who appreciates finer establishments and likes to frequent cities like NY, Vegas, Miami, and others, I know how “exclusive” some places like to be. I’ve also been told before that I can’t get into a place, which is no problem as there are valid reasons (capacity/safety reasons) and I’m not ever in the interest of making anyone’s job harder. What I don’t appreciate is the rudeness and haughtiness of this establishment, specifically speaking the doorman’s behavior.

If that’s the kind of atmosphere that Bar Penelope wants to exude then so be it, but don’t expect me to want to revisit or promote this place despite how “cute” it may be. If you don’t already have a reservation or some kind of hookup, then give this place a miss. If you find yourself looking for another spot to try Nubelez, Jean’s, and Madeline’s Martini are some cute spots I’d recommend. Obviously there’s a reason why this place barely has 3 stars, and I wish I would’ve read the reviews to see why instead of...

If you’re looking for a night of overpriced mediocrity, Penelope Bar is the place to be! 🤬 From the moment you walk in—if they even let you in, that is—you’re greeted with an attitude that screams, “We’re too good for you.” The door policy?🤣 A complete mystery. It’s like a bizarre social experiment where the entry fee depends on the “manager’s mood” and whether you fit their preferred aesthetic.🐼

Once inside, prepare yourself for some of the worst cocktails imaginable. Ever wondered what a $$$$ drink that tastes like cough syrup mixed with tap water is like? Wonder no more! And the food? Ah, a true culinary masterpiece—if you enjoy your meal served cold with a side of indifference. I’ve had airplane meals with more personality.🫣

Speaking of personality, 😳 let’s talk about the manager, Angelo Peruzzi. If arrogance were an Olympic sport, he’d take home the gold.🏆 Customer service? Nonexistent. Hospitality? Laughable. Instead, expect condescending remarks and a pricing system so unpredictable you’d think they were playing a game of roulette with the table fees. One table pays $1,000 just to sit, another pays $2,500— with no bottle service, just the privilege of parking your behind —while others pay nothing at all!!!! Who decides? Your guess is as good as mine! 🤑

The atmosphere? Well, let’s just say it doesn’t exactly exude class. It’s less of a luxury hotspot and more of a wannabe-exclusive, yet undeniably tacky, disaster. If you were hoping for an elegant crowd, lower your expectations.

Oh, and don’t even think about lingering at your table too long—you might get hit with a mysterious “per-person” fee for simply existing. Because nothing says hospitality like being charged for breathing their overpriced air! 💨

In short, if you enjoy 🤑 overpriced drinks, terrible service, and a vibe that’s more sketchy than stylish, then by all means, give Penelope Bar a try. Otherwise, save your money 💰 —and your dignity—and go somewhere that actually values its...

We made three separate reservations for six people at 9:30 PM for a birthday celebration at Le Bar Penelope, but our experience was incredibly frustrating from the start. Despite calling the restaurant four times and leaving voicemails to request one large reservation, we never received a response. As a result, we had no choice but to make three separate bookings.

Unfortunately, the restaurant was not accommodating. Two of our reservations were seated an hour later than scheduled, and our third reservation was never seated. The bouncer even refused to let in two members of our group, stating that we were “cheating the system.” Meanwhile, the manager claimed that our third reservation was considered "complete," even though we were left without seating for those guests. This left members of our group standing at the table due to a lack of available seats.

The manager and bouncer then insisted we pay a $2,200 minimum spend to be seated together. When we declined, they dropped the price to $1,500, but it felt like they were just throwing out random amounts. We refused again, and as a result, our two seated reservations were placed far apart, seemingly out of spite.

Additionally, there was an open table next to one of our reserved tables, but when we asked to move our second group there, we were told it was "reserved." However, that table sat empty the entire night. The manager’s behavior was unprofessional and it seemed like she was enjoying a power trip at our expense.

The only positive part of the night was our waitress, who genuinely tried to make the best of the situation and improve our experience, despite the management's poor attitude. Unfortunately, her efforts couldn't make up for the frustrating experience caused by the rest of the staff.

Given the poor service and lack of consideration, I would not recommend Le...